Shocker Nation and United Way of the Plains Team Up to Champion Childhood Literacy

WICHITA, Kan., Feb. 6, 2025 — Wichita State University and United Way of the Plains are once again teaming up to support childhood literacy through Champions for Literacy, a national initiative that unites college basketball programs and fans around a shared goal: helping every child become a strong reader.

As part of the partnership, Wichita State will host two designated Champions for Literacy games at Charles Koch Arena:

• WSU Women vs. Florida Atlantic — Tuesday, Feb. 10, at 6 p.m.
• WSU Men vs. South Florida — Wednesday, Feb. 11, at 6:30 p.m.

Fans are invited to cheer on the Shockers while supporting United Way’s local childhood literacy efforts and helping put books in the hands of young readers across Wichita.

According to the Kansas Department of Education, 77% of Wichita third graders were not reading proficiently during the 2024–2025 school year. Early literacy is critical to long-term academic success, and this initiative helps ensure students have the tools they need to keep learning outside the classroom.

This year’s fundraising goal is $15,000, which will support United Way’s literacy programs and provide new books to kindergarten through third grade students in Wichita Public Schools. A donation of $10 provides two books, helping students build reading skills and prevent summer learning loss.

“Shocker Nation is a powerful partner in raising awareness about childhood literacy,” said Pete Najera, President and CEO of United Way of the Plains. “All of the funds raised stay local and support future Shockers by giving Wichita students the resources they need to read proficiently and succeed in school and beyond.”

Last year, the initiative delivered 5,572 books to 2,786 kindergarten through third-grade students across 13 Wichita elementary schools. United Way of the Plains and Wichita State Athletics aim to reach even more children with this year’s campaign.

Community members can support the effort by donating at: championsforlit.org/wichita.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Stacy Ward Lattin, Manager of Public Outreach and Community Engagement, (316) 267-1321, ext. 4224, swardlattin@unitedwayplains.org

United Way of the Plains mobilizes our community to action so all can thrive. From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, we’re working towards a future where every person in south-central Kansas can reach their full potential. Follow us on these social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok.